6. Referral to other statutory regimes

6. Referral to other statutory regimes 

Although the Joint Office is designed as a “one-stop” service, not every seepage case falls within the PHMSO. If an investigation reveals broader building defects, dilapidations, or defective drainage works, the matter may be referred to the Buildings Department under the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123). If there is evidence of wastage of water caused by defective supply pipes, the case may be referred to the Water Supplies Department under the Waterworks Ordinance (Cap. 102). 

This referral function shows that the Joint Office operates within a larger network of government regulation. Its own enforcement powers are centred on public health nuisances, but water seepage may also raise issues of building safety, drainage compliance, or water supply wastage. In those cases, other statutory regimes may be more appropriate.